BTS member J-Hope successfully wrapped up his North American tour with a grand finale at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles on October 7th.
The tour, titled 'j-hope Tour 'HOPE ON THE STAGE' in LOS ANGELES', saw J-Hope perform in six cities, including Brooklyn, Chicago, Mexico City, San Antonio, Oakland, and Los Angeles, across 12 shows, engaging with approximately 178,000 fans.
As the first K-pop solo artist to perform at BMO Stadium, J-Hope's Los Angeles concert garnered significant attention even before it began. The performance featured a surprise appearance by Miguel, who joined J-Hope on stage for their collaboration 'Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)', marking a memorable end to the tour.
J-Hope greeted the packed audience warmly and kicked off the show with 'What if...', followed by performances of 'Pandora's Box', 'Arson', 'Trivia 起 : Just Dance', and 'Hope World', showcasing his identity and narrative. He also delivered energetic performances of 'MIC DROP + Baepsae + Disease' and 'Chicken Noodle Soup (feat. Becky G)', while engaging with the audience during 'on the street (solo version)' and 'NEURON (with Gaeko, Yoonmirae)'.
The stadium was filled with J-Hope's live vocals and dynamic performances, with fans responding with cheers and sing-alongs. The new tracks 'Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)' and 'MONA LISA' received particularly enthusiastic reactions. J-Hope captivated the audience with his sweet delivery in 'Sweet Dreams' and a sexy group dance in 'MONA LISA', demonstrating his ability to control the pace of the performance.
Towards the end of the concert, J-Hope expressed his gratitude, saying, "Today marks the culmination of my North American tour. Initially, I was doubtful and fearful, but through challenges and experiences, I have come to understand myself and the world. This sincerity becomes music, and that music reaches you. Thank you and love to the ARMYs who have been part of this journey." He added, "My first solo stadium concert is significant and historic for me. This stage is created by you, and everything comes together because of you. Like the tour's name, I am happiest on stage."
International media praised J-Hope's North American tour. Forbes described the concert as "a masterpiece showcasing the pinnacle of creativity and music," noting that despite performing the same setlist in five previous cities, J-Hope exuded joy and passion on stage as if he had been waiting for this moment his entire life. His energy remained unwavering despite intense choreography and continuous live performances.
The LA Times commented, "J-Hope seems to improve with each performance across various cities. In 'HOPE ON THE STAGE', he seamlessly transitions between rap and singing, showcasing diverse vocals." The publication highlighted his stage presence and musical growth as the first K-pop solo artist to perform at BMO Stadium.
J-Hope will kick off his 'j-hope Tour 'HOPE ON THE STAGE' in ASIA TOUR' starting in Manila on October 12-13, with stops in Saitama, Singapore, Jakarta, Bangkok, Macau, Taipei, and Osaka.
Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr